Troops destroy IPOB/ESN encampment, capture fighter, weapons

Troops of 63 Brigade Garrison, in collaboration with the Department of State Services, have destroyed an enclave of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Asaba, Delta State.

The troops reportedly conducted a raid operation on the enclave located in the middle of a forested high ground in the early hours of Saturday, July 22, 2023.

In the ensuing exchange of fire, the troops overpowered the IPOB fighters, compelling them to abandon their hideout in disarray. One of the fleeing fighters was captured, and five AK-47 rifles, three pump-action semi-automatic rifles, one G3 rifle, and one single-barrel gun were recovered. Other items recovered include live cartridges, an electric saw, machetes, an axe, and an IPOB flag.

The statement by the Nigerian Army states that the troops are exploiting the forest in pursuit of the fleeing fighters.

The full statement reads:

TROOPS SACK IPOB/ESN ENCLAVE, CAPTURE FIGHTER, FIRE ARMS

In a sustained effort to rid Nigeria of criminality, troops of 63 Bde Garrison under the auspices of 6 Division, Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services, have in an ongoing Clearance Operation, destroyed an enclave of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN)at Asaba, Delta State, today Saturday 22 July 2023. The troops conducted a raid operation on the fortified enclave located in the middle of a forested High ground in the early hours of the day.

The gallant troops overpowered the IPOB fighters in the exchange of fire that followed the encounter, compelling them to abandon their hideout in disarray. The troops captured one of the fleeing fighters and recovered five AK 47 Rifles, three Pump Action Semi Automatic Rifles, one G3 Rifle and one single barrel gun. Other items recovered, include Live Cartridges, Electric Saw, Machetes, an Axe and IPOB flag.

The troops have destroyed the enclave and are exploiting the forest in pursuit of the fleeing fighters.

The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja has commended the troops and other security agencies for their effort in the ongoing operations and has charged them to sustain the momentum to restore sanity in the region.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU

Brigadier General

Director Army Public Relations

22 July 2023